MCAT FAQs

Can I Cancel My Scores?

No. All scores from every time you’ve taken the MCAT are reported and sent to the colleges you designate. The only exception is that if you tested prior to April 2003, you can select which of those pre-April 2003 scores to send to colleges.

The only way to prevent scores from appearing in your MCAT testing history is to VOID your exam at the end of your testing session. If you VOID your test, it will not be scored at all, and your participation in that administration of the MCAT will not be reported to any schools at all.

Remember that you can take the MCAT up to three times in a calendar year, with no lifetime maximum, and the scores from each test date are reported separately.

More information about scores can be found on the AAMC website:

How do I know if I am ready for the MCAT?

Try our free MCAT practice test. When you finish the test, you'll get a complete score report detailing your strengths and weaknesses. If you are satisfied with your results, then you may be ready. If you feel that you still need help, check out The Princeton Review's many MCAT test preparation options or give us a call at 888-955-4600.

When can I take the MCAT, and how do I register for it?

Where do I take the MCAT?

The computer–based MCAT will be given at Thomson Prometric testing sites around the world and throughout North America. You should be comfortable taking the MCAT at these sites, as they are built specifically for computer–based testing.

Each center is equipped with:

climate– and sound–controlled systems

ergonomic chairs

guest lockers

state–of–the–art equipment

noise reduction headphones

standardized proctoring

How do I decide when to take the MCAT?

First, find out the application deadlines for the medical schools to which you are applying. Then work backwards from your earliest deadline. Build some extra time into your planning process for unexpected delays.

What fees are associated with the MCAT?

It costs $270 to register for the MCAT. For no additional fee, your scores will be reported to you, and, if you authorize it, released to schools that participate in the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS), and up to 6 institutions that do not participate in AMCAS. Registration fee waiver information is available on the AAMC website.

Is the MCAT computer-adaptive?

No. There are two types of computer tests: computer–adaptive tests (CATs), which serve questions based on previous answers, and computer–based tests (CBTs) which is a linear test. The MCAT is a CBT, which is similar to a paper exam—you can jump around within a section and answer items in any order you wish.

If I choose not to take one of my 10–minute break times during the MCAT, will that time be added to my other break times?

No. If you choose to skip a break, you lose those 10 minutes.

Will I get scratch paper to use when I take the MCAT?

Scratch paper and pencils are provided at the test center.

On the MCAT, you are able to highlight passage text, strike out answer choices, and review your answers. How do I practice this?

The Princeton Review practice tests are very similar to the real MCAT, not only in content but also in usability; all of the practice tests you will take in your course, and our Free Online MCAT Practice Test, have the same features as the actual MCAT.

Where can I get more information about the MCAT?

You can contact The Princeton Review by calling 888-955-4600. Or you can contact the MCAT Program Office at: 319–337–1357 or AAMC.

How can I make sure I'm prepared for the MCAT?

If you take a Princeton Review MCAT course or work with a Princeton Review tutor, we guarantee that you will be satisfied with your final score. Learn more about our MCAT test prep options.